Motorized Single-Tube Armament Control for Safe Missile Arming
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing armament control units for TOW missile launchers, particularly those designed for armored vehicles, require manual operation which can be dangerous and time-consuming in hazardous conditions, and are limited to dual cradle configurations, lacking flexibility and operator safety.
Innovation Solution
A Single Armament Control Unit (SACU) that operates a single missile tube, utilizing a motorized system with a crankshaft and interlock pin and umbilical connector, ensuring precise alignment and electrical connection, while incorporating a safety mechanism to prevent damage and facilitate safe operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual operation of traditional armament control units is used, then the system structure is simple, but operator safety deteriorates and operation time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operations with an automated motorized system. The armament control unit uses a motor to automatically position the missile tube, align interlock pins, and connect umbilicals, eliminating the need for operators to manually handle hazardous components while improving safety and precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-positioning and self-alignment functions through automated control mechanisms. The motorized armament control unit automatically adjusts the missile tube position and aligns connection components without requiring external manual intervention, enabling the system to service itself during critical arming operations.
2Manufacturing precision
If manual alignment of interlock pins and umbilical connectors is performed, then the device structure is simple, but connection precision deteriorates and damage risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a motorized positioning system with automated alignment mechanisms. The system uses controlled motor movement to precisely position interlock pins and umbilical connectors, ensuring accurate alignment that prevents connection errors and damage while eliminating the imprecision of manual alignment.
Solution Approach 2:
The automated alignment system incorporates feedback mechanisms to monitor and adjust the positioning of interlock pins and umbilical connectors. The system detects alignment status and makes real-time adjustments to ensure precise connection, preventing mismatches and potential damage that would occur with manual alignment.
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional dual cradle launcher configuration is used, then the launcher is versatile for multiple missiles, but adaptability to single tube configurations deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the launcher system into modular components, with independent armament control units that can function with single or multiple missile tubes. The motorized positioning and alignment mechanisms are designed as separable modules that can be configured for different launcher arrangements, enabling flexibility between single-tube and dual-cradle configurations without requiring complete system redesign.
Data Source
AI summary
A Single Armament Control Unit (SACU) that operates a single missile tube as opposed to multiple tubes. The SACU provides for interlock pin and umbilical depression from the housing on the rotation of a single crankshaft controlled by a single motor where the rotor of the motor and the rotational axis of the crankshaft are generally parallel to the missile tube.